The Federal Communications Commission said on Tuesday that it has
terminated a proceeding that considered the use of cellular phones
on airplanes.

The FCC had been examining an existing rule that requires cell
phones to be turned off once an aircraft leaves the ground in order
to avoid interfering with cellular networks on the ground.

However, after gathering comments from industry and the public, the
FCC said there was insufficient technical information on whether
cell phones would cause harmful interference.

It would be premature to seek further comment at this point as
airlines, manufacturers and wireless providers are still researching
the use of cell phones and other portable electronic devices on
planes, the FCC said in an order issued on Tuesday.

The agency said it may reconsider the issue at a later time if
"appropriate technical data is available."

Federal Aviation Administration rules also restrict the use of cell
phones to prevent interference with the aircraft's navigation and
communication systems.